DC WATER HEADQUARTERS

The DC Water Headquarters was one of SmithGroup’s first projects to leverage computational design. I supported the informed design process by developing a variety of grasshopper-based performance analysis tools that delivered information at the speed of design. Rather than simply validate options, the parametric workflows I developed educated the team and led to a design that holistically integrated performative features like a self-shading massing, overhangs, and a second skin.

The design we developed for the pursuit barely changed through CDs. This project showcased how data and automation can dramatically improve the design process. It won a National AIA 2021 Innovation Award.